February 2025 – Page 12

25 Most Unusual Bridges in the World

3. Rialto Bridge, Italy

Another historically and culturally magnificent bridge built in the 15th century; Italy’s Rialto Bridge spans the famous Venice Grand Canals. Though it was built somewhere in the 12th century as a tint barge, which was the only means for local to access the other side of the canal, it was later commissioned to upgraded by local authorities. A fun trivia about this bridge is that though legendary artists Palladio and Michelangelo offered to design the bridge, it was eventually done by Antonio da Ponte. Several architects mercilessly criticized da Ponte’s design, only to eat their words later. The Venetian structure is still an architectural marvel and the only path over two Venice sides until a entire spate of bridges were created later.

12 Places We Miss Traveling to the Most

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Bridges not just physically link places; they also connect eras and a region’s heritage. Since times immemorial man has attempted to cross challenging landscapes such as deserts, mountains and vast seas. Bridges also make for exciting adventures. How about crossing an arduous river on a bridge? Think of ingenious bridge designs, state of the art architecture and a heritage to boot. It is all experiencing the architectural ingenuity of a place by knowing more about its bridges. Here is a list of some of the planet’s most fascinating and unusual bridges that will leave you totally stunned!

12 Places We Miss Traveling to the Most

11. New Zealand

The Lord of the Rings film franchise was shot here. Now not only hikers but film buffs are drawn here to enjoy the stunning natural geography, complete with the famous rolling hills of The Shire and the rugged volcanic mountains of mighty Mordor. Ah, but now this attractive island nation has some of the world’s strictest pandemic regulations and border policies. These regulations are credited with keeping the virus death toll down to 27 deaths. Additionally, at least 67 percent of the residents have received a minimum of one shot.